The legendary Lincroft Inn has been closed since late 2016. After a year and a half of sitting empty, demolition on the building will begin today. A new restaurant, to be named The Lincroft Tavern, will take its place.

The question has been asked why the building, built in 1697 (not a typo), was being replaced rather than renovated, the new owners said the building already has nearly a dozen additions; after consulting structural engineers and architects, they decided the best solution was to start over.

Some aspect of the building will be saved though, as six chestnut posts that date from the original building were discovered and will be salvaged.

It will be the second demolition of an iconic eatery in Monmouth County in a week's time, after the Circus Drive-In was razed.

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